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Oceania Cruises rolls out immersive 'Go Local' tours

portofino (oceania cruises)
A 'Fishing with the Natives' tour is available at Portofino PHOTO: Oceania Cruises
Oceania Cruises unveiled a 'Go Local' series of immersive excursions featuring visits to homes and traditional businesses.

Becoming part of a local family

'On these tours you are being introduced to local artisans, shopping local markets and quite literally becoming part of a local family,' Oceania President and CEO Bob Binder said. 'You’re learning about and experiencing generations-old traditions and the ways of their day-to-day lives.'

More than 120 'Go Local' tours are available throughout Europe, Alaska and South America, with choices ranging from 'A Day at the Farm' in Kusadasi to 'Hidden Treasures of Milongas' in Buenos Aires and 'Playing Gaelic Games' in Cork.

'Shepherd for a Day'

For example, from the Spanish port of Mahon, travelers can become 'Shepherd for a Day' at a family farm in the countryside of Ciutadella or Es Mercadal. They'll be introduced to the lifestyle and operation of the farm, including milking, sheep-shearing and learning to make goat cheese. Then it's time for a meal around the family table with local cheeses, fresh baked bread, cured meats and wine.

'Fishing with the Natives'

In Portofino, Italy, a lively 'Fishing with the Natives' excursion takes participants to sea with a local fishing crew, watching them haul in the day’s catch. The captain and crew will describe their typical day on the scenic Ligurian Sea and explain the different methods they use, such as the traditional palamiti, long lines with hundreds of hooks. The day includes a meal of traditionally prepared, just-caught fish followed by a dip in the sea.